"Can I put a VR6 in a 1988 Jetta?"

I just got a 1988 Jetta for free that is in mint condition complete with the BBS wheels. I bought a 1998 VR6 complete with auto trans.,complete wiring and computer, and struts and axels. I am a do it yourselfer and really could use some help on knowing if this can be done, and what else I will need to complete the car.
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V-Dubman
Oh , Hell yes you can !!
They live for it.
Be ready to release some wallet $ filler $!!
They fit these in golfs, rabbits etc.
But Are you doing this for speed or just to have one running car?
You didn't mention any specs, mileage of the motor, what u have and dont have,
Line of credit
Keep in mind this is a lot of work , a super big detailed job and can be ultra-costly as well if you dont do some basics. This also could take a diy'er months.
I would try to sack the auto trans with a manual, and inspect every inch of the VR6. Whats the sense of upgrading a motor for speed and keep the heavy slow auto? (my opinion only)
Before even considering a swap You should be checking out the internals of the vr6 first, be ready to spend a few bucks !!! The head, pistons, crank, gaskets etc. I mean for piece of mind it should be top to bottom reviewed.
And while you have it apart port, polish & clean everything. Visit this site to get an idea of what u are getting into. Financially & the workload ahead. And make sure you log & photograph everything to post on VW Vortex so others can benefit.
http://users.adelphia.net/~mbrackliffe/dubbase.html
A Friend in South Florida,
Defn1ear
Ps Like I said you didn't mention all specs, whats really wrong with the 98 but can it be salvaged?
Leave the motor in it, build it up 1st and down the line drop a 1.8 L turbo 20 valve engine in the 88!
A tad lighter than the vr6.
Then you have 2 fast-[non-permissible content removed] VWS! MK2 + MK3 !
Unless its a complete wreck (98) than I would transplant.
Dont forget to have fun!
You'll need this for sure,
My favorite auto parts seller, They are thorough, Have good prices and they are uniquely efficient. There in NY so I get my stuff rather quickly. They respond to tech questions ultra fast too.
http://www.germanautoparts.com/main.php
Have Fun,
DeFn1EaR
What needs to be done?
Well, to get the motor to work, you need to convert to 5 lug hubs in the front. You'll probably want to do itto the rear too, although it isn't necessary. Now is a good time to ditch the rear drum brakes in favor of discs.
The VR6 is heavier, so you'll need a stronger suspension setup.
The VR6 runs a hydraulic clutch, the 2.0 is cable. Switch that. The VR6 uses cable shifter, whereas the 2.0 is mechanical (and pretty brilliant).
Stock guages won't worl with the new ECU.
There is a long list of thing that need to change to make it work.
the good news is, if you can find a head from the new 2.0T FSI, you can put it on the bulletproof ABA and have yourself a monster. Beef up your differential before you blow it apart though.
Well, to get the motor to work, you need to convert to 5 lug hubs in the front. You'll probably want to do itto the rear too, although it isn't necessary. Now is a good time to ditch the rear drum brakes in favor of discs.
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this is wrong. Stop telling people they need to swap to 5 lug. There is nothing wrong with drum brakes either, stopping wise compared to the small stock rear disc brakes are virtually the same
-mike